The Falkirk Wheel

Suggested days out from Glasgow and Edinburgh by train

Scotland’s newest attraction. A marvel of modern engineering, the Falkirk Wheel was built to lift canal barges between Central Scotland's two canals, the Union Canal and the Forth & Clyde canal. It was opened by the Queen in 2002. It’s a magnificent structure, and you can take a trip on a barge and get lifted 115 feet in a gondola up to the higher level.

As you enjoy stunning views, your barge will then enter a new short stretch of tunnel, turn round, pass back through the tunnel and down again on the wheel to the starting point. There are cafes, an outdoor picnic area and an extensive gift shop.

Frequent trains from Glasgow and Edinburgh to Falkirk High or Falkirk Grahamston stations. From either you can take a short walk to catch a number 3 bus (every 15 minutes; hourly on Sundays), or take a taxi for the short distance to the wheel.